Autogas Hybrid Technology Showcased at Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference
Alliance AutoGas showcased autogas hybrid technology at the 2018 Sustainable Fleet Technology Conference & Expo, Aug. 22-23 at the Durham Convention Center, Durham, N.C.
AAG engineers designed an autogas electric hybrid to be introduced to the market with the 2017 Ford Fusion. The Hybrid Ford Fusion on display at the Expo is a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder vehicle that will provide additional torque, reduced emissions and better fuel economy, AAG said.
AAG engineers pursued this partial electrification or “hybridization” project with the Ford Fusion with the goal of preparing for larger hybrid vehicles that Ford is expected to produce in the future, such as the hybrid F-150. Both the Fusion and the F-150 are commonly used in large fleets. By offering a hybrid vehicle that has better fuel economy, AAG customers will experience increased cost savings and reduced emissions, AAG said.
The technology used in the Fusion has an internal combustion engine with an electric drive motor in what is called a ‘series-parallel’ configuration. This means that both the engine and electric motor can work together to propel the vehicle. Because AAG uses a mono-fuel port injected vapor system in a port fuel injection engine, replacing gasoline completely with propane autogas, the two technologies are working together to reduce emissions and fuel consumption, AAG said.
Alliance AutoGas’ president, Stuart Weidie, said, “We are pleased to differentiate Alliance AutoGas in the alternative fuel market as hybrid friendly. This vehicle is a precursor of many to come in the Ford family, and our company is committed to staying ahead of vehicle technology. We want to provide autogas users with the best possible resources for reducing emissions and costs on the market.”
Alliance AutoGas (www.allianceautogas.com) is an international network providing a comprehensive propane autogas solution to medium and heavy-duty fleets. AAG is managed by its parent company, Blossman Gas, Inc., Ocean Springs, Miss. AAG comprises more than 120 independent propane marketers and authorized conversion centers throughout North America. Its partners work to provide propane and propane autogas for vehicle fleets and lawn care companies or a landscaping contractor throughout North America. The partners are also engaged in offering EPA certified small-engine systems through a division called Alliance Small Engines.
PICTURED: Hybrid Ford Fusion. Photo courtesy of Alliance AutoGas.
